OpenAI to acquire Python toolmaker Astral
March 19, 2026 at 15:13 UTC
Key Points
- OpenAI plans to buy Python-focused developer tools startup Astral
- Astral’s tools will be integrated into OpenAI’s AI coding system Codex
- The deal aims to bolster OpenAI’s position against rival Anthropic
- Codex has surpassed 2 million weekly active users with rapid growth
OpenAI moves to acquire Astral
OpenAI said it will acquire Python toolmaker Astral as part of an effort to strengthen its position in the artificial intelligence coding tools market. The Microsoft (MSFT)-backed company plans to integrate Astral’s coding tools into Codex, its AI-powered coding agent and core coding platform.
The companies did not disclose financial terms of the deal. OpenAI described Astral as a major player in the Python community, with tools focused on improving speed and reliability in Python development.
Strategic focus on AI coding tools
OpenAI is using the Astral acquisition to expand the capabilities of Codex, one of its most important products in the developer ecosystem. By bringing Astral’s suite of developer tools into Codex, OpenAI aims to deepen its offering for software developers who work extensively in Python.
Astral’s tools are designed to enhance development workflows, and their integration is intended to complement Codex’s AI-assisted coding features. Astral founder and CEO Charlie Marsh said OpenAI will continue supporting the company’s open-source tools after the deal closes.
Competitive pressure from Anthropic
The acquisition comes as OpenAI faces growing competition from Anthropic in the AI coding segment. Anthropic’s Claude Code tool has gained traction among software developers, prompting OpenAI to step up efforts to strengthen its own portfolio of coding products.
OpenAI’s move to buy Astral is positioned as part of a broader push to gain more share in the AI coding tools market. The company continues to acquire startups to enhance Codex and related offerings as it competes with Anthropic and other rivals.
Codex growth and product expansion
OpenAI said Codex now has more than 2 million weekly active users. This represents a three-fold increase in users and a five-fold jump in usage since the beginning of the year, according to the company.
The Sam Altman-led firm launched its Codex platform last year and introduced a desktop app for its coding tools earlier this year. These product moves, combined with the planned integration of Astral’s tools, highlight OpenAI’s focus on expanding both the reach and functionality of Codex.
Key Takeaways
- OpenAI is using acquisitions such as Astral to deepen Codex’s capabilities for Python developers while maintaining support for open-source tools.
- Stronger competition from Anthropic’s Claude Code is pushing OpenAI to broaden its coding tools portfolio and enhance its value to software developers.
- Rapid growth in Codex’s weekly active users and usage underpins OpenAI’s strategy to integrate Astral’s suite and expand its AI coding ecosystem.
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